What we can learn from our favourite childhood films

What can we learn from our favourite childhood films about ourselves, our leadership and how we see the world?

Here are some lessons I've learned from watching Star Wars over the years:

1. The importance of perseverance: Throughout the Star Wars saga, characters face seemingly insurmountable challenges and setbacks, but they never give up. Whether it's Luke Skywalker training to become a Jedi, or the Rebel Alliance fighting against the Empire, perseverance is key to achieving success.

2. The power of self-belief: Luke Skywalker initially doubts his abilities as a Jedi, but with the help of his mentors and the Force, he learns to trust in himself and his abilities. This teaches us that self-belief is a powerful tool in achieving our goals.

3. The danger of giving in to fear and anger: Anakin Skywalker's fall to the dark side of the Force is a cautionary tale about the dangers of giving in to negative emotions like fear and anger. It shows us that these emotions can cloud our judgment and lead us down a destructive path.

4. The importance of friendship and teamwork: The Star Wars saga is full of examples of characters working together to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. From Han Solo and Chewbacca to Luke, Leia, and Han, these friendships and partnerships show us the power of teamwork.

5. The value of mission and purpose: Throughout the Star Wars saga, characters make sacrifices for the greater good. Whether it's Obi-Wan Kenobi sacrificing himself to allow Luke and his friends to escape the Death Star, or Anakin Skywalker sacrificing himself to save his son, these acts of selflessness show us that when we are connected to something much greater than ourselves, it gives us perspective, and we let go of our own fears and insecurities for the greater good.

6. The power of presence. Whether it's Luke mastering the light saber by wearing a blindfold, or turning off his onboard controls whilst carrying out a mission, these actions show us that when we let go of the need to control our external world and tune into the present moment, we unleash our power from within. We are more calm, cool, connected, and have more clarity.

7. Taking the call (to action). Luke Skywalker initially refused the call when Obi-Wan Kenobi invited him to join the rebel forces. His ordinary world offered comfort and security. But it held him back from reaching his full potential, until a big life event changed his whole perspective.

When we view the world from the perspective of our inner child, we get to see beyond the complexity that our minds create, and see with greater clarity and freedom. 

What heros journeys inspire you?